The first landmark volume of the new Valiant Universe collects new material from the publisher's smash-hit 'Summer of Valiant' relaunch. X-O Manowar Vol. 1: By The Sword is written by New York Times best-selling author Robert Venditti (The Surrogates), illustrated by Eisner Award-winning artist Cary Nord (Conan), and collects the first four issues of the breakout series that has taken fans and critics by storm!

The beginning of the all-new Valiant Universe starts here! Aric of Dacia is a brash warrior and heir to the throne of the Visigoth people. He has lived his life under the heel of the Roman Empire, but now a far more terrible enemy has come to subjugate him. Taken from his home and family, Aric is enslaved aboard a starship belonging to a brutal race of alien colonizers known as The Vine. If he is to have any hope of escaping and returning to Earth, he will have to steal the Vine's most powerful weapon - a sentient suit of indestructible armor - and become X-O Manowar!

'A complete knockout.' - Ain't It Cool News

'Incredibly enjoyable… X-O Manowar is back and you need to check it out.' - Comic Book Resources

'High octane action and excitement in spades…' - Newsarama

'This series [is] a must read...' - IGN

'A stunning debut...' - The Onion/A.V. Club

If you've been waiting for a perfect entry point into Valiant's return, this is it! After four printings, multiple sell-outs, and unparalleled critical acclaim, discover the sensation that has begun the Valiant Universe anew and won over a whole new generation of fans.